Oven baked 4-ingredient beef crostini is the kind of easy appetizer that feels a little fancy without making a big mess in the kitchen. Crisp slices of baguette, savory roast beef, and melty provolone come together with just a swipe of prepared horseradish sauce for a warm, satisfying bite that is perfect for parties, game days, or a simple family snack night. It has that steakhouse-inspired flavor people love, but it is wonderfully quick to pull together.
Serve these crostini warm with a simple vegetable tray, dill pickles, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. They also pair nicely with a bowl of tomato soup for a light meal, or as part of an appetizer spread with stuffed mushrooms, cheese cubes, and sparkling lemonade for an easy gathering.
Oven Baked 4-Ingredient Beef Crostini
Servings: 8
Ingredients
1 crusty baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
8 ounces deli roast beef, thinly sliced
6 slices provolone cheese, cut to fit baguette slices
1/3 cup prepared horseradish sauce
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on the baking sheet.
2. Lightly toast the baguette slices in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes, just until the edges begin to turn golden. Remove the pan from the oven.
3. Spread a small spoonful of horseradish sauce onto each toasted slice. Top with a folded piece of roast beef and a piece of provolone cheese.
4. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 5 to 8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the beef is heated through.
5. Transfer the crostini to a serving platter and serve right away while the bread is crisp and the cheese is warm and gooey.
Variations & Tips
Milder version: If you are serving kids or anyone who does not love the kick of horseradish, use a thinner layer or swap it for a little mayonnaise. You still get a creamy bite without the extra sharpness.
Make it heartier: For a more filling appetizer, pile the roast beef a little higher on each slice and cut the baguette pieces slightly thicker so they hold up well. This is a nice option if you are serving these in place of a main lunch.
Keep the bread crisp: Toasting the bread before adding the toppings is the key to crostini that stay crisp instead of soft. If your baguette is very fresh, give it the full toasting time so it has a sturdy base.
Easy party prep: You can toast the baguette slices a few hours ahead of time and keep them loosely covered at room temperature. When guests are almost ready to eat, just add the toppings and bake until hot and melty.